Monseigneur Le Vin: A Complete Guide to Charles Martin’s 1920s Lithographs
Explore Charles Martin’s Monseigneur Le Vin lithographs from the 1920s. Discover the meaning, themes, and Art Deco style behind this iconic wine series.
Charles Martin - Plaisir de la bouche
A Masterpiece of French Art Deco Advertising
Few wine posters from the early 20th century capture the joie de vivre of French drinking culture as vibrantly as “Monseigneur le Vin”, created by the French illustrator Charles Martin in the 1920s. Known for his refined line work, theatrical compositions, and unmistakably Parisian wit, Martin produced some of the most charming Art Deco images of his time.
But among his many works—fashion illustrations, calendars, portfolios of elegant Parisiennes—it is Monseigneur le Vin that has become a collector’s favourite. Why? Because this poster manages to be humorous, elegant, and irresistibly French all at once.
Charles Martin - Plaisir des yeux
Who Was Charles Martin?
Before diving into the poster, it’s worth understanding the artist behind it.
Charles Martin (1884–1934) was a prolific Art Deco illustrator whose work appeared in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and the luxurious pochoir portfolios that defined 1920s Paris. Martin was a master of:
- Stylized silhouettes
- Geometric elegance
- Playfully exaggerated characters
- Pochoir colouring techniques (hand-stencilled colour)
His oeuvre celebrates the glamour, humour, and lightness of the interwar years—an era when Paris was the world’s cultural capital.
Charles Martin - Plaisir du Nez
The Story Behind “Monseigneur le Vin”
The poster was originally created to promote wine culture in France, personifying wine as a proud aristocratic figure—“His Highness, The Wine.”
In the image, we typically see:
- A strutting character dressed as an aristocrat, representing French wine.
- Exaggerated elegance with a hint of comedy.
- Classic Martin elements: bold outlines, refined textile patterns, and over-the-top staging.
The poster is part satire, part celebration—a reminder that wine in France is more than a drink; it is a heritage, a cultural actor, a noble “character” with deep roots.
Charles Martin - L'appreciation
Why Collectors Love This Poster ?
- Pure Art Deco Charm
The 1920s are the golden age of French poster design, and Charles Martin’s work epitomizes the era’s sophistication and humour.
- Rare and Highly Decorative
Original copies of Monseigneur le Vin are not common on the market. Their scarcity, combined with their visual impact, makes them valuable interior design pieces.
- A perfect blend of humour and elegance
It’s the kind of artwork that immediately sparks a smile—yet remains undeniably chic.
Charles Martin - Préparation Mentale
A Closer Look at the Design
While each edition has subtle variations depending on printing and colouring, the defining elements remain:
- Bold, crisp outline typical of Martin’s fashion illustrations
- Elegant period costume reflecting French aristocracy
- Movement and theatricality, as if the character is stepping off a stage
- Warm, romantic colour palette influenced by pochoir techniques
The playful theatricality makes it feel as if the character is inviting you to pour a glass.
Charles Martin - Le Buveur Civilisé
Is “Monseigneur le Vin” Valuable?
Original lithographs can command high prices depending on condition, provenance, and printing origin.
- Auction results show increasing interest in Martin’s advertising work.
- Reproductions are popular among design boutiques for their decorative appeal.
- As Art Deco continues to rise in interior design trends, Martin’s posters gain relevance.
If you own one and want help assessing it, feel free to ask—I can help identify edition, condition, and typical market ranges.
Charles Martin - Verser lentement
Why This Poster Still Resonates Today ?
A century later, Monseigneur le Vin feels fresh because it captures something eternal:
Wine as a celebration of life, culture, and pleasure.
Charles Martin understood that wine is both an everyday pleasure and a symbol of French refinement. His poster embodies this duality with grace and humour.
Charles Martin - Sentir le bouchon
Final Thoughts
Monseigneur le Vin sits at the crossroads of art, fashion, wine culture, and French satire. It embodies the light-hearted sophistication of the Roaring Twenties—an era when posters were not just advertisements but works of art that defined the cultural imagination.
Whether you’re a wine lover, an Art Deco enthusiast, or a collector looking for a piece with character, this poster continues to charm new audiences just as it did a century ago.
Charles Martin - Déboucher